COVINGTON, GA – Nancy Rowell “Polly” Forbes, age 89, died Tuesday, October 9, 2012, at The Benton House in Covington, Ga.

Formerly of Murfreesboro, Mrs. Forbes was born in Coffee County, GA, on April 27, 1923, a daughter of the late Lizzie and Walter Rowell.  She was a former member of Murfreesboro Baptist Church.

Polly enjoyed a distinguished career as an artist, receiving numerous awards and was a past member of the Blackwater Artist League in Courtland, VA.  Polly loved God, family and her friends.  She loved nature and its beauty and saw endless beauty in her surroundings and in people.  One of her many gifts was her devotion and unconditional love to her late husband, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and to all of her family.  Polly gave unselfishly of her time and talents while encouraging others to paint and live with passion and joy.  She will be missed by many that loved her.

Left to cherish her memory is her daughter, Joan Chambers and husband, Don, of Social Circle, GA; her son Tommy Forbes and wife, Lisa, of Murfreesboro; her grandchildren, Marcia Abernathy and husband, Dave, of Jackson, TN, and Cliff and Corey Forbes of Murfreesboro; and her great grandchildren, Sarah Grace and Bennett Abernathy of Jackson, TN, and Ben Jackson of Monticello, GA.  She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Forbes was preceded in death by her husband, Edwin T. Forbes; and her granddaughter, Nancy Jackson.

A celebration of life service was held on Sunday, October 14, 2012 at Murfreesboro Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Lee Canipe officiating.  Burial followed in Riverside Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the home of Tommy and Lisa Forbes.

Memorial donations may be made to Murfreesboro Baptist Church, PO Box 124, Murfreesboro, NC, 27855.

Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Ahoskie, is serving the Forbes family.  Family and friends may send condolences and sign the online guestbook by visiting www.garrettfh.com.